What To Expect From A Cesarean Birth?

Cesarean delivery, also known as C-section is a common method of childbirth and is performed in approximately 31.8% of all the births in the United States.

Why is it called Caesarean section?

There is a popular misconception that Julius Caesar was born this way, this is why it was known as the Cesarean way of birthing. It is because until the early 17th century, c0section was rarely attempted on living women. The term "cesarean section", however comes from the Roman legal code, lex Caesarea, which required that a baby be cut from its mother's womb if she died in childbirth. The term may also come from the Latin word caedare, which means "to cut".

What happens in c-section?

It is a surgical procedure which is used to deliver a baby through an incision made in the abdomen and uterus. Medicine and science has evolved for mothers to choose this method of delivery as and when they plan their delivery, and it is no longer considered as an emergency or something performed only when the mother died in the process.

This method, today, is often recommended for medical reasons too, especially for any complication during labor or breech presentation, or multiple births.

Pain Levels

Does it hurt? Yes, it does. But the pain level really depends from person to person. In a vaginal delivery, the pain is experienced during labor and pushing, especially, if done without the epidural. Whereas, in C-section, a surgery is performed which numbs the body down from chest down. However, the recovery could be painful and prolonged. It is also because in c-section, it involves healing from a major abdominal surgery, while vaginal birth recovery may be quicker, complicated or traumatic.

Does it affect the baby?

Usually it does not harm the baby, but there could be potential risk to the baby too, including:

• Surgical injury, which is vary rare, however, the baby may be accidentally nicked during the incision
• Respiratory issues: babies born via c-section may have a higher risk of breathing, since they miss the natural compression during the vaginal birth that helps expel the amniotic fluid from their lungs
• Delayed bonding: Immediate skin-to-skin contact may take longer due to the surgical process.
• Feeding challenges: Some newborns may initially struggle with breastfeeding.

Are there any risks associated with c-section?

• Excessive blood loss
• Infection
• Blood clots in the legs, lungs, or pelvis
• Damage to nearby organs
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises against elective C-sections due to these potential complications.

What can you expect from a c-section delivery?

Anesthesia is administered to ensure that there is no pain felt during the procedure. While the surgery itself is painless, there could be prolonged pain in the recovery period. This is where communication with the medical team is crucial.

Recovering from a C-section involves managing post-surgical pain. The first few days are often the most challenging, with discomfort decreasing over time. Doctors typically prescribe pain relief medications like ibuprofen to manage symptoms.

What can be done to support healing after a c-section?

• Support the incision area when coughing, laughing, or sneezing by holding a pillow against the site.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid irritation.
• Rest as much as possible while allowing the body time to heal.
• Most individuals feel significantly better by six to eight weeks post-surgery. Factors such as overall health, mobility, and a supportive environment can also play a major role in recovery.